The Stream – Eating out, with a side of cultural appropriation

Eating foods from different cultures can be a way to connect with people around the world. But when is borrowing flavours from backgrounds other than your own considered wrong?

In Portland, Oregon, two white women were forced to close their Mexican burrito cart after people on social media criticised the business for what they saw as cultural appropriation. After a local newspaper report told their story of learning how to make tortillas for free during a trip to Mexico, the two women said they had even received death threats.

Why is there so much anger over these burritos? On Wednesday’s show, we want to examine the issues surrounding food, identity, and being accused of cultural appropriation. What is the difference between flavor inspiration and a culinary rip-off?